"Building Our Future" Development Campaign

Questions and Answers

Cost Projections and Total Funding Needs

What were the financial results from the prior two development campaigns?

Our faith family pledged $1,408,529 in support of the two, 3-year development campaigns conducted between 1997 and 2003. As of March 28, 2003 $1,111,823 was contributed in fulfillment of these pledges. We expect to receive more contributions over the next few months as we conclude the pledge payment period. These two campaigns have enabled us to accomplish many goals including:

  • Installing a new roof, completing lower level renovations and expanding the Gathering Area
  • Adding to our religious education staff and growing the program
  • Developing and expanding the Companion Ministry
  • Meeting our CSA annual targets
  • Contributing to the Pontiac Area Vicariate Vision 2000 School Campaign
  • Increasing funding levels for our outreach efforts

Why are we conducting a pledge drive?

The “Building Our Future” campaign will enable us to address critical physical, program and outreach needs of our faith family. This will be the only solicitation we will make over that time.

What is different about this campaign?

In addition to our on-going physical, program and outreach needs, the “Building Our Future” campaign involves renovation work on the church. Given the scope of the work, we will be doing the work in three phases over a period of nine years.

Phase One (2003-2006) involves hiring an architect to develop a Master Plan, overhauling the lighting, and setting aside funds for renovation.

Phase Two (2006-2009) will transform the interior of the church. Renovations will follow the Master Plan in order to address the growth issues we face as a parish.

Phase Three (2009-2012) involves building a Eucharistic Chapel that would be used for adoration as well as weddings, funerals and prayer services.

What is the campaign goal and how will the contributions be used?

In order to meet our projected physical, program and outreach needs through June 30, 2006, we need to raise $770,330 to fund all of the needs described on the Development Needs List 2003-2006.

Is my campaign pledge over and above my regular Offertory contributions?

Yes. Your Offertory gifts allow us to manage the day-to-day operating expenses of the parish.

Will “Building Our Future” pledges be processed as Catholic Services (CSA) pledges?

Yes. The Archdiocese of Detroit CSA Office will administer the balance of your campaign pledge and send payment reminder envelopes and statements directly to you.

What if I want to make a contribution with my pledge?

If you submit a contribution at the time you turn in your campaign pledge, the check should be made payable to: St. John Fisher “Building Our Future” Campaign. We are encouraging parishioners to make as large an initial gift as possible, for example 10%, if they are able.

Who is being asked to support this campaign and how much should I pledge?

We need all parishioners to support this campaign with a generous pledge offered through reasonable sacrifice. We are not seeking equal pledges from parishioners but equal sacrifice. We are asking you to make the most generous three-year pledge possible based on your individual needs and circumstances. Your gifts are tax-deductible as provided by law.

Is it possible to contribute stocks, bonds or certificates of deposit in support of the campaign?

Yes. Please consult your financial/tax advisor and Sue Schettenhelm at the parish office, before making the gift. Sue can be reached on Monday and Thursday at 248-373-6457 ext. 3310.

How does the parish benefit by conducting the campaign through the CSA?

All of the revenues that exceed our annual CSA target are returned to St. John Fisher to fund the needs of the campaign. All of the funds returned to St. John Fisher are not subject to the 6% Archdiocesan assessment and they earn 5¼% interest in our account with the Archdiocese. In addition, the CSA handles most of the administration, which reduces the burden on our staff.

Are memorial pledge levels available?

Yes. Because of the scope and amount of the renovation work to the Chapel, memorial pledges are encouraged. Memorial pledges may be paid over 3, 6 or 9 years, at the donor’s discretion, and will be recognized with a plaque or a commemorative inscription. The pledge levels are:

Eucharistic Chapel Memorial: $500,000
Lighting Memorial: $150,000
Reconciliation Memorial: $100,000
Altar Area Memorial: $50,000
Window Covering Memorial: $50,000

Building Our Future home page

 
 

Last Updated April 02, 2006